Hi Guys.

The wife took the MSF class a few weeks ago so now were looking for a bike for her.  She rode a little 125 in class which was like 310 lbs.  I have an M50 Boulevard & SV1000s and she trield the Boulevard and could ride it but she was not totally comfortable so I said I'd get her a bike that is less heavy.  So I'm going to get a her a savage.

I have found 3 bikes within about an hour.  2 here in Buffalo

2002 Savage $2200 3800 miles, windshield, saddlebags & backrest

1998 Savage $1000  12,000 miles, windshield & backrest (no bags)
  This has test ridden this one and it rides good.  Has new rubber front & back as well as new battery (last 2 years anyway)  It also has a ripped seat.

I also found one in Rochester

2001 Savage $1500 12,000 miles, windshield, saddlebags & backrest

My understanding is that the bike is pretty much similar for all years.  I know they changed from a 4 speed to a 5 speed sometime in the mid 90's and there is now the S40 but they're all pretty close.

Is there anything to watch out for on these bikes or particular year.  I've read things about backfiring but that isn't that big of an issue.  I like the idea of less maintenance since I already have to keep up on 2 bikes.

Anybody selling saddlebags, saddlebag supports or a seat?

Thanks, Dan

Thanks for pointing out the cam chain issue.  We've started both the bikes that are local and both sound great and idled very nicely with no noises.

I like the $2200 one, but I really like the $1000 one. Both are within prices paid here in the south. However, I know how to work on my bike, and I know what to look for and listen to before buying. Also, is she going to ride it or is it going to be a "carport queen"? I don't want to insult you, but after 33 years of marriage I've learned that my enthusiasm does not always transfer to my wife. I think it's great that she took the course. And a deal comes up every day. Don't rush it. If you miss a deal today, there'll be another next week. Ride safe and congrats to your wife.  Boofer

Try to get her a ride on one. The Savage is a love it or hate it machine, not much middle ground.

Mine is a 98 that I bought brand new and started modifying shortly there after. It's on its 4th or 5th incarnation, currently as an east coast highbar barhopper. That I ride, so it has saddlebags.  

Any of those would be fine for her. Buy cheap, modify it to suit and ride the wheels off of it. Mine sat up for a couple years, they don't make good garage/yard art...

dmsween wrote on 10/09/10 at 09:35:14:


I'd worry about it the second she sat upon it.  Wimim tend to not notice silly things that will raise the hair on the back on men's necks.  You know like loud clanking and smoke billowing out the back or a trail of oil everywhere she goes.

But seriously, anywhere after 8k miles.  Depends on the PO, did he maintain it well.  This will show up in the cam chain quickly.  I'd do the cam chain adjuster check which ever one you choose and know for sure.  Take a measurement of the plunger and make a guestimate of when you'll need to look at again.  The plunger might start 9mm out when new and needs attention at 18mm out typically at 20k miles.  Really rough numbers BTW.  20k/10mm gives you about 2k miles per mm roughly.

dmsween wrote on 10/09/10 at 09:35:14:

Use a good synthetic motorcycle oil on the one with the least miles and you can go at lease 20,000 miles without doing anything.

Carbs don't go out of tune,You need to keep the carb clean and lubed,thats what Sea Foam does.And use only the motorcycle synthetic oils,They cost more thats why a lot of people on here don't use it.And then they have troubles and wonder why.

Well, I think you got a good deal.
Welcome to the Club now that you're an official owner.
The seat I'd either buy a replacement cover or take it to a local guy to replace.  the advantage of a local guy is you can redo the padding anyway you like.